Corporate Accountability in the Oil and Gas Sector for Environmental Damage

A Case Study of Oil Pollution in the Niger Delta

Abstract

This study examines corporate liability for environmental damage in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, focusing on oil pollution in the Niger Delta. Although Nigeria has established a comprehensive legal framework governing environmental protection and petroleum operations, enforcement remains inconsistent. The research applies a normative juridical method supported by an empirical approach to assess both the regulatory structure and its practical implementation. Primary legal sources, including constitutional provisions, environmental statutes, and sector-specific legislation, are analyzed alongside judicial decisions and official reports. The findings reveal a significant gap between legal norms and enforcement practices. Oil spills continue to cause severe ecological degradation, economic loss, and social conflict, while sanctions imposed on corporations are often insufficient to create deterrence. Institutional weaknesses, limited transparency, and economic dependence on oil revenues further hinder effective accountability. The study argues that strengthening corporate criminal liability, enforcing the polluter pays principle, enhancing regulatory capacity, and improving community access to justice are critical to achieving environmental justice and sustainable development in the Niger Delta.